About the song
“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” stands as an iconic masterpiece in the realm of popular music, originally crafted by Phil Spector, Barry Mann, and Cynthia Weil. Released in 1964 by the renowned vocal duo the Righteous Brothers, this rendition is often hailed as the quintessential example of Phil Spector’s groundbreaking Wall of Sound recording technique.
From its debut, the song soared to unprecedented heights of critical acclaim and commercial success. In early February 1965, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” ascended to the top of both the US Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart, solidifying its status as a transatlantic chart-topper. Billboard recognized its enduring popularity by ranking it No. 5 in their year-end Top 100 of 1965, a testament to its lasting impact on the music scene.
Over the years, the song has been reinterpreted by numerous artists, each bringing their unique flair while paying homage to the original’s soulful resonance. Cilla Black’s rendition reached No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart in 1965, followed by Dionne Warwick’s 1969 version peaking at No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway’s 1971 duet and Long John Baldry’s 1979 remake in Australia further cemented its status as a beloved classic. Notably, Hall and Oates revived the song in 1980, achieving a No. 12 placement on the US Hot 100 with their rendition.
Critically acclaimed for its emotional depth and impeccable production, the Righteous Brothers’ version of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” has been lauded as one of the finest records ever created and the ultimate pop record. Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) recognized its enduring popularity by ranking it as the most-played song on American radio and television in the 20th century, amassing millions of airplays over the decades. This accolade underscored its cultural significance and lasting influence on the music landscape.
In recognition of its profound impact, the song was selected by the RIAA as one of the Songs of the Century in 2001 and was inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress in 2015 for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. Rolling Stone magazine also honored it by placing it at No. 34 on their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2003.
“You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” remains a timeless testament to the power of music to evoke deep emotions and resonate across generations, ensuring its place as a cherished classic in the annals of popular music history.
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Lyrics
You never close your eyes anymore when I kiss your lips
And there’s no tenderness like before in your fingertips
You’re trying hard not to show it
But baby, baby I know it
You lost that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
You lost that lovin’ feelin’
Now it’s gone, gone, gone, whoa-oh
Now there’s no welcome look in your eyes when I reach for you
And now you’re starting to criticize little things I do
It makes me just feel like crying
‘Cause baby, something beautiful’s dyin’
You lost that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
You lost that lovin’ feelin’
Now it’s gone, gone, gone, whoa-oh
Baby, baby, I’d get down on my knees for you
If you would only love me like you used to do, yeah
We had a love, a love, a love you don’t find everyday
So don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t let it slip away
Baby, baby, baby, baby
I beg you please, please, please, please
I need your love, need your love
I need your love, I need your love
So bring it on back, so bring it on back
Bring it on back, bring it on back
Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
‘Cause it’s gone, gone, gone
And I can’t go on, whoa-oh
Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
Whoa, that lovin’ feelin’
Bring back that lovin’ feelin’
‘Cause it’s gone, gone, gone